People v. McClinton

Mr. PRESIDING JUSTICE STAMOS

delivered the opinion of the court.

After a bench trial defendant was found guilty of petit theft * and sentenced to a term of 90 days. He appeals and submits the following contentions; (1) that the record does not reflect a knowing and understanding waiver by defendant of his right to a jury trial; (2) that defendant was not proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt; (3) that the sentence of 90 days was excessive.

Opinion

In Illinois the trial court is charged with the duty to ensure that the election of a defendant to forego a trial by jury is expressly, knowingly and…